Relatif

Relatif is a French adjective meaning “relative” or “relational.” It is used to indicate dependence on context, a reference frame, or comparison with something else. In English-language contexts the closest cognate is “relative.” The opposite of relatif is often “absolu” (absolute) or “objectif” (objective).

Etymology-wise, relatif derives from Latin relativus, from referre “to refer.” The suffix -if marks adjectives in French, and relatif has widespread use across disciplines and everyday language.

In science and philosophy, relatif appears in discussions of relativity, which examines how observations depend on the observer’s frame of reference. In philosophy, relativism describes positions where truth, values, or norms vary with contexts such as culture or perspective. In mathematics and statistics, terms like valeur relative (relative value) or mesure relative (relative measurement) describe quantities defined with respect to a baseline or reference point.

Common phrases illustrate its usage in everyday French: temps relatif (relative time), distance relative à un point de référence (distance relative to a reference point), mesure relative (relative measurement), coût relatif (relative cost), and position relative (relative position). The concept also appears in law, social sciences, and linguistics to denote dependence or relationship rather than an absolute property.

Relation to other languages: the concept exists in many Romance languages with cognate forms and similar meanings. In English texts, relatif is usually translated as relative or relational. The term is generally not used as a standalone noun in ordinary writing, except in specific titles, names, or technical terms.